Virus Protection

The term "virus" is used to describe various types of malicious software that can affect your computer. Viruses work in different ways and have varied effects, but almost all can destroy data or prevent your computer from working properly. Some are merely an inconvenience, others will destroy particular files types or even erase your entire hard drive. Viruses can be written for any operating system, but most are written for and affect the many versions of Microsoft Windows.

While viruses used to be passed predominantly from user to user via floppy disks, the most common method of receiving viruses these days is from an email attachment. The only attachments that are potentially harmful are executable files (.exe, .com, .pif, and .bat files), certain scripts (including .vbs and java scripts), and documents that allow macros to be run (generally Microsoft Word and Excel files, .doc and .xls respectively).

Because new viruses are created and distributed daily, virus protection programs rely on frequent updates (called definition or DAT files) to remain effective. If your computer is infected with a virus and you do not have anti-virus software installed or do not have a recent update, you may not be able to install or update the software. In such cases, more specialized virus recovery programs will be necessary to repair the damage.

Use free anti-virus software

OIT distributes and supports McAfee VirusScan for Windows and McAfee Virex for Macintosh. Download free, supported anti-virus software for your computer by clicking on the link below. The software will check for updates automatically when you start your computer. You'll be protected from the most current viruses.

Download VirusScan for Windows here.

Download Virex for Macintosh here. 

For instructions on scanning your computer for viruses:

NOTE: Update your definitions file weekly (for Windows or Macintosh)

Scan attachments and downloaded software

When you receive an email attachment or download software, save the file(s) to a central folder and scan the folder with your anti-virus software. Instructions are available for McAfee VirusScan and McAfee Virex.

Set macro security to high

If you don't use macros in Microsoft Word or Excel, set the Macro Security option to High.

To set the Macro Security option:

  1. From the Tools menu, select Options.
  2. In the Options dialog box, click the Security tab.
  3. Click Macro Security.
  4. In the Security dialog box on the Security Level tab, select High.
  5. Click OK.
  6. In the Options dialog box, click OK.